BY DESIGN
Greater Vision
For 14 years, l.a. Eyeworks’ signature black-and-white ads have featured bespectacled celebrity pals of owners Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi. But behind that image is a history of activism--such as their latest collaboration with Aileen Getty, an artist living with AIDS. She stars in the current campaign seen in magazines and on bus shelters throughout Orange County. Along with her ex-mother-in-law, Elizabeth Taylor, Getty has dedicated her life to raising awareness of and funds for AIDS. (Getty was formerly married to Taylor’s son, Christopher Wilding.) “The ad is about a dialogue with our customers . . . and a greater visibility for Aileen,” says Gherardi. She and McReynolds surprised Getty by giving $10 from each sale of the “Luck” clip-on specs ($210) Getty dons in the ad to the Aileen Getty House for Women With AIDS.
Know Thy Source
Not into supporting product testing on animals? Don’t like the thought of animal-derived ingredients in your cosmetics or personal-care goods? You can refer to several guides now out, such as “Personal Care for People Who Care” from the National Anti-Vivisection Society ($4.95). The nonprofit, Chicago-based group identifies companies and suppliers that are cruelty-free and those that are not. Among the 600-plus companies listed is Earth Science Inc. of Yorba Linda. Its skin and beauty lines are sold in health and natural food markets worldwide. “There’s a growing number of shoppers concerned with the companies behind the products they buy,” says Earth Science co-owner Mike Rutledge. “Part of our business is supporting a wide range of animal-rights groups and environmental groups in the country.”
Time Again for Indulgence
The ‘90s trend to shun extravagance for minimalist simplicity is apparently not for everyone. Not surprisingly, women in O.C are among those making jeweled watches a hot accessory right now, according to Cartier manager Arlene Dungca of the South Coast Plaza boutique. With that in mind, Cartier introduced a jeweled version of its popular Diablo watch, first introduced in 1991. Its four cabochon-trimmed hinges and winding stem distinguish it from others, as does the band, available in satin or leather. “What a more beautiful way to wear jewelry than on your wrist,” says Dungca. “It’s functional and elegant at the same time.” Pricey, too. In three sizes, the diamond-encrusted Diablo is $16,700 for the mini-model, $23,500 for the small face and $27,500 for a large style--that also fits men.
